Use local elections to woo self-employed, says PCG

The
local and European elections provide “a golden opportunity” for policymakers to
get behind the growing number of people choosing self-employment and unlock the
potential of such independent workers.

So says PCG, the freelancers’ body, which has spelt out how incoming local
councillors and MEPs can boost a sector which UK Prime Minister David Cameron calls “the engine of
our economy”.

Reflecting
on the UK’s upcoming local elections, PCG's director of policy Simon McVicker said
that by supporting self-employment locally, councillors could boost businesses
in their constituencies.

“For
example, by working to improve local connectivity such as broadband internet
and local transport infrastructure, councils will ensure self-employed
professionals can remain in touch with clients at all times – a vitally
important part of 21st Century business,” he said.

Councillors
were also told they can support the newly self-employed by turning unused
council properties into community work spaces, so people who have recently
begun ‘working for
themselves’ have a base to do business.

As
to the European elections, Mr McVicker believes that more support for
independent professionals would help the EU’s economic recovery continue.

“It
is also important that independent professionals – or iPros as they are called
- are visible in official
statistics. Better regulation that considers the unique needs of the sector
would also ensure independent professionals get a fair deal when it comes to
getting work and getting paid fairly and on time for the services they
deliver.”